Frequently Asked Questions about American Citizen Services (2024)

Please read through our Frequently Asked Questions before you contact the Embassy/Consulates.

Main Categories:

Appointments
Passport Emergencies
Passports
Mail-in and Online Payment for Passport Renewals
Social Security Number Requirement
Dual Citizenship
Newborns/Reports of Birth
eCRBA FAQs
Notary
U.S. Military
Marriage
Other

Appointments

Do I have to make an appointment? Can I make an appointment over the phone?
There are no appointments available. What can I do?
I would like to cancel or reschedule my existing appointment but forgot my password.
I want to make a notary appointment. There are 2(3 …) people signing the same document. Do I need to make separate appointments for each and every one of them?
There is no place to enter the non-applicant’s name within the appointment system for notaries. What should I do?
I accidentally mistyped information when making an appointment. What do I need to do?
On the day of my appointment, how long should I expect to be at the Embassy/Consulate?
Can a third party accompany a passport or CRBA applicant to their interview?

Passport emergencies

Help! I just realized my passport is expired and I have a trip planned next week with a purchased ticket. What can I do?
My passport just got stolen! (Or lost) What should I do?

Passports

How long does it take to have my passport issued?
Can I pay to expedite my application?
When should I renew my passport?
I haven’t renewed my passport for a long time. What should I do?
Will I get my old passport back?
I do/my child does not have a social security number. How should I fill out the application form?
I cannot enter my Japanese phone number/zip code/emergency contact in the application form system. What should I do?
Will you transfer my Japanese visa to my new passport?
Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?
I will travel back to the U.S. and return to Japan right before my passport expires. Should I renew my passport?
I am an active duty service member. Do I need a passport?
I/My dependents have (Dependent) Military (no fee) passports. Do I/they need a tourist passport to go on vacation?
What is a passport card? Can I apply for one?
What if I am almost out of pages in my passport?
Can I drop off a passport application on behalf of another person?
Can I have a third person pick up my passport?
I got married/divorced, and wish to change my last name on the passport. What should I do?
How do I change my child’s family name on the passport due to parents’ divorce?
I am a dual citizen and wish to change my name to match my Japanese passport. What should I do?
I am unable to access the online passpoprt application form (e.g. DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504).
What is the passport validity required for traveling to Japan?

Mail-in and Online Payment for Passport Renewals

Can I mail my passport renewal application to the Embassy?
Who is eligible to pay online and renew their passport by mail?
Can minors (younger than 16) renew by mail?
Can applicants at age 16 or 17 apply by themselves, or by mail?
What if I don’t have a passport book? Can I still pay online and mail my application to the Embassy?
What do I need in order to pay online for my U.S. passport via Pay.gov?
Do I need special software or computer equipment to pay for my U.S. passport via Pay.gov?
Is the online process safe?
How do I know that my payment information is secure?
Can I pay for more than one passport at a time in a single transaction on pay.gov?
After a successful payment is made via Pay.gov for my passport renewal, where should I mail the email confirmation and completed DS-82 application?
What are the steps for paying online for my U.S. passport renewal via Pay.gov?
How long will it take to receive my passport in the mail?
How do I check the status of my  passport application?
I live far away from Tokyo. Can I just send (or bring) my application and pay.gov payment confirmation to the nearest consulate?
What if I want to pay in person or I already have a U.S. postal money order?

Social Security Number Requirement

Do I have to provide my Social Security number on my passport application?
What if I don’t have a Social Security number?
What if I am applying for a passport for my child who does not have a Social Security number yet?
What if I can’t remember my Social Security number?
What if I have an emergency and need to travel but cannot locate my Social Security number?

Dual Citizenship

Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?
I was born in the U.S. and am a dual citizen. My U.S. passport has expired long time ago. Can I use my Japanese passport to travel to the U.S. and register for ESTA? Is there a risk of traveling to the U.S. using my Japanese passport only?
I haven’t renewed my passport for a long time and my name is different on the Japanese passport and U.S. Passport. What documents are required to renew my passport?
Should I choose one nationality over the other after reaching 20 years old?
I am a dual citizen and wish to change my name to match my Japanese passport. What should I do?
Since I am a dual citizen, my names on the U.S. passport and the foreign passport are different. May I travel with different names on the U.S. passport and the foreign passport?

Newborns/Reports of Birth

Does my child really have to come in to see you?
Do both parents have to appear to the Report of Birth appointment?
When is the deadline for me to report my child’s birth?
Can I report my child’s birth while in the U.S?
My newborn child does not have a social security number yet. How should I fill out the passport application form?
I cannot enter my Japanese phone number/zip code/emergency contact in the application form system. What should I do?
Do the translations for the Japanese documents need to be notarized or signed by the municipal office?
Does my newborn need a Japanese visa?
Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?
I am a U.S. citizen born in Japan. How do I get a duplicate copy of my Birth Certificate (Consular Report of Birth Abroad)?
My spouse and I are both U.S. citizens and were married at the time of the child’s birth. However, my spouse is unable to appear in person. What should we do?
We were married at the time of the child’s birth AND the U.S. citizen parent is unable to appear in person. What should we do?
We were NOT married at the time of the child’s birth AND the U.S. citizen parent is unable to appear in person. What do I need to bring in?
Do I need to submit original documents when applying for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad in Japan?
Can I submit documents written in a language other than English?
I am unable to access the DS-2029 application form from the checklist.
I have made a payment. How long is it good for?

Notary

What should I bring?
Can you check my documents?
I need a witness for my document(s). Can the Embassy/Consulate be a witness for me?
Can I get a notary on behalf of someone else?
Can I get a notary done anywhere else?
What options do I have if I can’t wait for the next available notarial appointment?
Can I get a document authenticated?
I need an Apostille.

U.S. Military

I/My dependents need a SOFA stamp in my/their new passport. What should I do?
I am an active duty service member. Do I need a passport?
I/My dependents have (Dependent) Military (no fee) passports. Do I/they need a tourist passport to go on vacation?
I am active duty and would like to report the birth of my child. What do I need to do?
I would like to get a notary done.
Japanese immigration is asking for my U. S. Embassy-issued”Marriage Certificate” to get a spouse visa. How can I get one?
Do I need to get the translation of my Japanese Marriage Certificate notarized in order to get my spouse’s U.S. visa/green card?

Marriage

I want to get married. What should I do?
What is a single affidavit and how do I get one?
Japanese immigration is asking for my U. S. Embassy-issued”Marriage Certificate” to get a spouse visa. How can I get one?
Do I need to get the translation of my Japanese Marriage Certificate notarized in order to get my spouse’s U.S. visa/green card?

Other

I received my Economic Impact Payment by check, but I am having trouble cashing it at a Japanese bank. What should I do?
What if I need help with taxes or tax forms?
Where should I go for assistance on voting?
How can I contact the Embassy/consulate regarding a passport, notary and/or Report of Birth question that I can’t find on your website?
How do I get my fingerprints taken in order to obtain my criminal record from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)?
How do I request for my Certificate for Criminal Records in Japan?

Appointments

Question: Do I have to make an appointment? Can I make an appointment over the phone?

Answer: All services require an appointment. For service in Tokyo, Osaka/Kobe, Naha, please make an appointment on- line, and for other consulates, please call each consulate to make an appointment.

Question: There are no appointments available. What can I do?

Answer: Please keep checking the website on a daily basis. We usually open appointment slots a month in advance and continually open more slots. Also, we have cancellations every day, and the cancellations will be reflected in the system every morning.

Question: I would like to cancel or reschedule my existing appointment but forgot my password.

Answer: If you cannot remember your password …

For appointments at the U.S. Embassy Tokyo, contact us through our Inquiry Form.
For appointments at the U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, E-mail AOK@state.gov.
For appointments at the U.S. Consulate General Naha, please E-mail Nahaacs@state.gov.
For appointments at the U.S. Consulate General Sapporo, please E-mail SapporoACS@state.gov.
For appointments at the U.S. Consulate f*ckuoka, please E-mail f*ckuokaACS@state.gov.

Please do not forget to include your full name (which the appointment was made under) and the date of your appointment in your e-mail.

Question: I want to make a notary appointment. There are 2(3 …) people signing the same document. Do I need to make separate appointments for each and every one of them?

Answer: You only need to make one appointment.

Question: There is no place to enter the non-applicant’s name within the appointment system for notaries. What should I do?

Answer: You are not required to enter the non-applicant’s name within the appointment system for notaries. The non-applicant will need to bring a valid ID with them.

Question: I accidentally mistyped information when making an appointment. What do I need to do?

Answer: As long as we can identify you, don’t worry about typos on your appointment.

Question: On the day of my appointment, how long should I expect to be at the Embassy/Consulate?

Answer: Most customers are here for under an hour. You can help ensure your appointment goes quickly by preparing your documents in advance and making sure your forms are filled out.

Question: Can a third party accompany a passport or CRBA applicant to their interview?

Answer: Generally, immediate family members may accompany passport or CRBA applicants to their appointment interviews at a U.S. embassy or consulate, and all minor children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Passport or CRBA applicants also have the option of being accompanied by an attorney at their appointment interview. For details, please click here.

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Passport Emergencies

Question: Help! I just realized my passport is expired and I have a trip planned next week with a purchased ticket. What can I do?

Answer: Emergency passports are on a very limited and strict basis. If you feel you qualify …

For U.S. Embassy Tokyo, contact us through our ACS Navigator.
For U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, email AOK@state.gov or call 06-6315-5900.
For U.S. Consulate General Sapporo, please call (011) 641-1115 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on weekdays) or email SapporoACS@state.gov.
For U.S. Consulate f*ckuoka, E-mail f*ckuokaACS@state.gov.
For U.S. Consulate General Naha, contact us through our ACS Navigator.

Question: My passport just got stolen! (Or lost) What should I do?

Answer: If your passport is lost or stolen, please make an appointment via our online appointment system and visit the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in person to replace your lost passport. Please follow the detailed instructions for a lost or stolen passport.

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Passports

Question: How long does it take to have my passport issued?

Answer: Normally, it takes approximately 6-8 weeks.

Question: Can I pay to expedite my application?

Answer: No. Expedited service is only available for applications within the U.S. However, if you have urgent travel in the near future, please consult with our staff at the time of application.

Question: When should I renew my passport?

Answer: You may renew your passport at any time before or after it expires. However, we encourage you to renew your passport at least six months before it expires. Please note that some countries (not the U.S. or Japan) require more than six months validity on your passport to enter that country.

Question: I haven’t renewed my passport for a long time. What should I do?

Answer: If you have a U.S. passport, even if it has been expired for a very long time, it is still considered a “renewal.” Please check our passport renewal page for renewal procedures, as you might be eligible to mail in your renewal application. If you wish to turn in your application in person, an appointment is required.

Please make sure you have a valid government-issued I.D. If your name on your I.D. is different from your name on the passport, please make sure you have original documents showing name change (e.g. Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Court Order).

If you are a dual citizen and your name on the Japanese passport and U.S. passport are different, please provide the original U.S. Birth Certificate/Consular Report of Birth and original Family Register “Koseki Tohon” with English translation.

Question: Will I get my old passport back?

Answer: Yes. We will cancel your old passport and mail it back to you with your new passport.

Question: I do/my child does not have a social security number. How should I fill out the application form?

Answer: You must provide a Social Security number, if you have been issued one, in accordance with 22 U.S.C. 2714a and 22 C.F.R 51.60(f). If you do not have a Social Security number, you must submit a signed statement including the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” For more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Question: I cannot enter my Japanese phone number/zip code/emergency contact in the application form system. What should I do?

Answer: If you have trouble entering your phone number/emergency contact, please leave it blank when entering it online. After printing the form, please fill out the missing information by hand.

Question: Will you transfer my Japanese visa to my new passport?

Answer: No. We will NOT transfer any visas on your current passport. Please contact Japanese Immigration for anything concerning your Japanese Visa. For other foreign visas, please contact the specific country’s embassy in Japan.

Question: Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?

Answer: By law, U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. Your child does not need and should not register for ESTA. Dual citizens should carry both valid passports (U.S. and Japan) at all times when traveling to/from the U.S. The dual citizen must present the Japanese passport when going through Japanese immigration and the U.S. passport at U.S. immigration. The only time your child presents both passports at the same time will be at the airline counter in Japan.

Question: I will travel back to the U.S. and return to Japan right before my passport expires. Should I renew my passport?

Answer: You will be able to travel to the U.S. as long as your passport is valid on the days you travel. For requirements to come back into Japan, please check with the Japanese Immigration or Japanese Embassy/Consulate in the U.S.

Question: I am an active duty service member. Do I need a passport?

Answer: You do not need a passport to go back to the U.S. as long as you are carrying your military I.D. and military orders. To travel to other counties for pleasure, please make sure you have a regular tourist passport. If you are a military member or a military dependent, please apply for a tourist passport with the military base passport agents.

Question: I/My dependents have (Dependent) Military (no fee) passports. Do I/they need a tourist passport to go on vacation?

Answer: They will need a U.S. tourist passport (unless the trip is in conjunction with military orders). If you are a military member or a military dependent, please apply for a tourist passport with the military base passport agents.

Question: What is a passport card? Can I apply for one?

Answer: The U.S. Passport Card can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. If you cross the U.S. border by land regularly, it is more convenient and less expensive than a passport book. The passport card can NOT be used for international travel by air.

If you are interested in applying for a U.S. passport card, please visit the Passport Card page for more information.

Question: What if I am almost out of pages in my passport?

Answer: Adding visa pages to your passport service is no longer available. Applicants who need extra pages will need to apply to renew their passports and will be issued the standard 52-page book. Please see Passport Renewals for further details.

Question: Can I drop off a passport application on behalf of another person?

Answer: If this is a passport application eligible to be sent by mail (passport renewal qualified for DS-82), you may have a third party come to our office to apply for a passport. Please make sure the application is complete and has been signed by the applicant.

*Please note: You must provide a Social Security number, if you have been issued one, in accordance with 22 U.S.C. 2714a and 22 C.F.R 51.60(f). If you do not have a Social Security number, you must submit a signed statement including the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” For more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Question: Can I have a third person pick up my passport?

Answer: If a third party wishes to pick up your passport, make sure to provide a letter of proxy indicating that you have authorized a specific individual to do so. Please make sure to sign your letter and have the individual bring in a valid photo ID. (e.g: passport, driver’s license, Resident’s card, etc). Parents picking up their child’s passport will need a letter of proxy if the child is over 16 years old.

Question: I got married/divorced, and wish to change my last name on the passport. What should I do?

Answer: If the change/correction is within one year after your passport was issued, you may apply by mail and may qualify for no fee. Please refer to our website for more details on Amending or Correcting Passports. If the change is more than one year after your passport issuance, there will be a fee. Please follow the procedures for passport renewal and include original documentation showing name change (ex. Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Court Order) and an English translation if necessary.

Question: How do I change my child’s family name on the passport due to parents’ divorce?

Answer: Please see our website at Children under 16 for information on how to renew a minor’s passport. Along with the required documents listed, you must submit the Japanese Family Register “Koseki Tohon” showing the divorce and new family name.

Question: I am a dual citizen and wish to change my name to match my Japanese passport. What should I do?

Answer: Please review the checklist for First-Time Passport Applications (Age 18 and up / Age 16 & 17 / Children under 16 ). Along with the required documents listed, you must submit the Japanese Family Register “Koseki Tohon” AND one valid proof of ID. Please note that you must appear in person at the interview for your passport application with an appointment.

Question: I am unable to access the online passpoprt application form (e.g. DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504).

Answer: If you are having difficulty with the online application, please print out the PDF document and fill it out by hand.

Question: What is the passport validity required for traveling to Japan?

Answer:Duration of intended period of stay. Note that althoughyou are not required to have 6 months’ validity on your passportto enter Japan, you may need 6 months’ validity if you transit Japan to travel to other countries. Check passport requirements of your destination before traveling: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html.

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Mail-in and Online Payment for Passport Renewals

Question: Can I mail my passport renewal application to the Embassy?

Answer: The U.S. Department of State is allowing U.S. citizens resident in Japan to pay for a U.S. adult passport renewal application online. Adult passport renewal applicants in Japan may pay the application fees online via electronic funds transfer from a U.S. based bank account, U.S. or international credit or debit card, Amazon Pay, or PayPal.  Paying online for a U.S. passport renewal allows you to mail your application in without having to apply in person at the Embassy or a consulate or to obtain a bank check or money order.

Question: Who is eligible to pay online and renew their passport by mail?

Answer: You may be eligible to apply via online payment if you are an adult (18 years and older), who already has a 10-year U.S. passport book issued no more than 15 years ago. You must have a mailing address in Japan. For more information,click here.

Question: Can minors (younger than 16 years) renew by mail?

Answer: No. Online fee payment and mail-in renewal is only available for adults (18 and older). In order to apply for a minor’s passport, both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of the child’s passport. For more information, click here. Children under age 16 cannot apply for a passport by themselves.

Question: Can applicants at age 16 or 17 apply by themselves, or by mail?

Answer:No. Please read the details and checklist on this page.

Question: What if I don’t have a passport book? Can I still pay online and mail my application to the Embassy?

Answer: No. You will need to apply for a new passport in person at the U.S. Embassy. Instructions can be found here.

Question: What do I need in order to pay online for my U.S. passport via Pay.gov?

Answer: You can pay the $130 fee by electronic check/transfer, credit/debit card, PayPal, or Amazon Pay on Pay.gov. This amount cannot be altered. You must pay the fee in U.S. dollars.

Question: Do I need special software or computer equipment to pay for my U.S. passport via Pay.gov?

Answer: No. All you need is a computer or mobile device with internet access.

Question: Is the online process safe?

Answer: Yes. The payment form on Pay.gov is encrypted to ensure your personal information is secure.

Question: How do I know that my payment information is secure?

Answer: You will submit your application fee using Pay.gov, which more than 40 U.S. government agencies use to collect forms and payments. Pay.gov uses 128-bit SSL encryption to protect your transaction.

Question: Can I pay for more than one passport at a time in a single transaction on pay.gov?

Answer: No. You must complete a new payment form for each passport application.

Question: After a successful payment is made via Pay.gov for my passport renewal, where should I mail the email confirmation and completed DS-82 application?

Answer: Please mail the following items to the U.S. Embassy Tokyo or U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe depending on where you reside. Please use the map to determine where to submit your application.

Your electronic payment confirmation
The passport you are renewing
Signed DS-82 application
Passport photo
A pre-paid, self-addressed “Japan Post LetterPack envelope” (with the complete address to which you want your new passport sent within Japan) Fold it in half if necessary.
LetterPack LIGHT: 370 yen, traceable, signature not required
LetterPack PLUS: 520 yen, traceable, signature required
NOTE: For persons using APO/FPO address, please send your applications to the U.S. Embassy Tokyo. Please note that MPS envelopes are not trackable. The Embassy cannot mail MPS envelopes using tracking numbers or by registered/certified mail.
U.S. Embassy Tokyo
U.S. Embassy Tokyo, Passport Unit
1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
Or, for Military Postal Service (MPS):
PSC 471 Box 1111 FPO, AP 96347
U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe
U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, Passport Unit
2-11-5 Nish*tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8543

Question: What are the steps for paying online for my U.S. passport renewal via Pay.gov?

Answer: Please follow these steps:

Acknowledge the disclaimers and notices
Verify your eligibility
Visit Pay.gov
Pay for the U.S. passport application fee
Await email confirmation for passport payment
Print email confirmation of passport payment
Fill out and sign the DS-82 application and include a photo
Mail a printed copy of the email confirmation of passport payment, a signed DS-82 application, the passport you are renewing, a pre-paid, self-addressed “Japan Post LetterPack envelope” (or self addressed envelope for those persons using an APO/FPO address), and a passport photo taken within six months via mail. Please mail your application package to the U.S. Embassy Tokyo or U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe depending on where you reside. Please use the map to determine where to submit your application. NOTE: For persons using APO/FPO address, please send your applications to the U.S. Embassy Tokyo.
U.S. Embassy Tokyo
U.S. Embassy Tokyo, Passport Unit
1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
Or, for Military Postal Service (MPS):
PSC 471 Box 1111 FPO, AP 96347
U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe
U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, Passport Unit
2-11-5 Nish*tenma, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8543

Question: How long will it take to receive my passport in the mail?

Answer: You should receive your passport by mail/courier within 6-8 weeks, the Department’s current processing time for routine service. If you have a need for immediate international travel, we may be able to issue you an limited validity emergency passport that will be valid for one year. Please make an appointment and come to the Embassy or nearest consulate in person. We are unable to process requests for expedited service through the online payment process via Pay.gov.

Question: How do I check the status of my  passport application?

Answer: You may contact the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo or U.S. Consulate General in Osaka depending on where you submitted your application (contact information). We ask that you wait at least four weeks after mailing your documents  before sending an inquiry.

Question: I live far away from Tokyo. Can I just send (or bring) my application and pay.gov payment confirmation to the nearest consulate?

Answer: No. Doing so could result in unanticipated delays. Please mail the application to the U.S. Embassy Tokyo or U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe depending on where you reside. Please use the map to determine where to submit your application.

Question: What if I want to pay in person or I already have a U.S. postal money order?

Answer: Payments made in person or by U.S. postal money orders are still accepted. Please follow the instructions on https://jp.usembassy.gov/passports/passport-renewals.

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Social Security Number Requirement

Question: Do I have to provide my Social Security number on my passport application?

Answer: Yes. 22 U.S.C. 2714a and 22 C.F.R 51.60(f) requires you to provide your Social Security number, if you have one, when you apply for a U.S. passport or renewal of a U.S. passport.

If you fail to provide the information, you will encounter a delay in processing and/or denial of your passport application. You will also be subject to a $500 penalty enforced by the IRS pursuant to Section 6039E of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 6039E). All questions on this matter should be directed to the IRS office.

Question: What if I don’t have a Social Security number?

Answer: If you would like to apply for a U.S. passport, and you don’t have a Social Security number, you will need to submit a signed statement which includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security number by the Social Security Administration.”

Question: What if I am applying for a passport for my child who does not have a Social Security number yet?

Answer: You will need to submit a signed declaration for your child which includes the phrase, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: (Child’s full name) has never been issued a Social Security number by the Social Security Administration.”

Question: What if I can’t remember my Social Security number?

Answer:If you do not remember your social security number (SSN) or your child’s SSN, you must apply in person. Please visit the Embassy or Consulate in your district with an appointment and consult with the staff. Please schedule an appointment online here.

Question: What if I have an emergency and need to travel but cannot locate my Social Security number?

Answer: If you are outside the United States, we may be able to issue you a limited passport for direct return to the United States only.

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Dual Citizenship

Question: Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?

Question: I was born in the U.S. and am a dual citizen. My U.S. passport has expired long time ago. Can I use my Japanese passport to travel to the U.S. and register for ESTA? Is there a risk of traveling to the U.S. using my Japanese passport only?

Answer: By law, U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. You should carry both valid passports (U.S. and Japan) at all times when traveling to/from the U.S. The dual citizen must present the Japanese passport when going through Japanese immigration and the U.S. passport at U.S. immigration. You do not need and should not register for ESTA. If you have further questions, please consult directly with the airlines.

Question: I haven’t renewed my passport for a long time and my name is different on the Japanese passport and U.S. Passport. What documents are required to renew my passport?

Please make sure you have a valid government-issued I.D. If your name has changed, please make sure you have original documents showing name change (e.g. Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Court Order).

If you name is different on the Japanese and U.S. passport, please provide the original U.S. Birth Certificate/Consular Report of Birth and original Family Register “Koseki Tohon” with English translation.

Question: Should I choose one nationality over the other after reaching 20 years old?

Answer: For information on U.S. policy on dual nationality, please read our website section on Dual Nationality. U.S. law does not contain any provisions requiring U.S. Citizens who are born with dual nationality to choose one nationality or the other when they become adults. Choosing Japanese nationality has no affect on U.S. citizenship.

Question: I am a dual citizen and wish to change my name to match my Japanese passport. What should I do?

Answer: Please review the checklist for First-Time Passport Applications (Age 18 and up / Age 16 & 17 / Children under 16 ). Along with the required documents listed, you must submit the Japanese family Register “Koseki Tohon” AND one valid proof of ID. Please note that you must appear in person at the interview for your passport application with an appointment.

Question: Since I am a dual citizen, my names on the U.S. passport and the foreign passport are different. May I travel with different names on the U.S. passport and the foreign passport?

Answer: By law, U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. We believe that there will be no particular issue traveling with different names on the U.S. passport and foreign passport, but please make sure to bring both valid passports when traveling to the United States. We also recommend you consult with the airline you are using in advance.

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Newborns/Reports of Birth

Question: Does my child really have to come in to see you?

Answer: Yes. Your child, even a newborn, must appear in person at our offices at the time you make the application. Children of U.S. military members may appear before the designated passport agent on base.

Question: Do both parents have to appear to the Report of Birth appointment?

Answer: Generally, both parents should attend the interview. However, if one parent is unable to appear in person, please click here.

Question: When is the deadline for me to report my child’s birth?

Answer: A Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. citizen is only issued to a child who acquired U.S. citizenship at birth and who is generally under the age of 18 at the time of the application. However, we encourage applicants to report their child’s birth as soon as possible.

Please note, by law, U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States.

Question: Can I report my child’s birth while in the U.S?

Answer: If your child was born abroad you will need to complete the Report of Birth process abroad; it can NOT be done in the U.S.

If your child was born in Japan, then the processing must be done in Japan. While you can file the documents at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad, that office is required to send those documents to us in Japan for processing. This causes significant delays; it is best to complete this whole procedure while you are still in Japan.

Question: My newborn child does not have a social security number yet. How should I fill out the passport application form?

Answer: Please enter, 000-00-0000 for infant.

Question: I cannot enter my Japanese phone number/zip code/emergency contact in the application form system. What should I do?

Answer: If you have trouble entering your phone number/emergency contact, please leave it blank when entering it online. After printing the form, please fill out the missing information by hand.

Question: Do the translations for the Japanese documents need to be notarized or signed by the municipal office?

Answer: No. You or anyone with the appropriate language ability can do the translation. They do not need to be notarized or signed by any Japanese government office.

Question: Does my newborn need a Japanese visa?

Answer: The final decision on any matter involving Japanese visas and/or Japanese nationality rests with the Japanese Government.

If your child has one Japanese parent and one American parent, the child likely is a dual national. As a Japanese citizen, she or he does not need a visa to stay in Japan.

If both parents are non-Japanese, your child will most likely need a Japanese visa. Please contact the nearest Japanese immigration office to apply for a visa whether you have his/her U.S. passport or not. You cannot obtain a Japanese visa at the American Embassy and we cannot advise you of the application requirements for a Japanese visa.

If one or more parents is in SOFA-status, check with your base legal advisor or personnel officer for details.

Question: Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her Japanese passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit Japan and U.S.?

Question: I am a U.S. citizen born in Japan. How do I get a duplicate copy of my Birth Certificate (Consular Report of Birth Abroad)?

Answer: If you are a U.S. citizen born overseas, the “Birth Certificate” that was issued to you is called a “Consular Report of Birth Abroad” or FS-240. If you would like a duplicate/additional copy of your Consular Report of Birth Abroad, please visit the Department of State website to find the information needed to submit your request. The U.S. Embassies/Consulates around the world do not keep records of your Consular Report of Birth Abroad and cannot issue duplicate/additional copies.

Question: My spouse and I are both U.S. citizens and were married at the time of the child’s birth. However, my spouse is unable to appear in person. What should we do?

Answer: In addition to ALLthe required documents listed on ourReport of Birth Checklist, there are other documents from the U.S. citizen non-applying parent you must bring. Please click here for more details.

Question: We were married at the time of the child’s birth AND the U.S. citizen parent is unable to appear in person. What should we do?

Answer:In addition to ALLthe required documents listed on ourReport of Birth Checklist, there are other documents from the U.S. citizen non-applying parent you must bring. Please click here for more details.

Question: We were NOT married at the time of the child’s birth AND the U.S. citizen parent is unable to appear in person. What do I need to bring in?

Answer:In addition to ALLthe required documents listed on ourReport of Birth Checklist, there are other documents from the U.S. citizen non-applying parent you must bring. Please click here for more details.

Question: Do I need to submit original documents when applying for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad in Japan?

Answer: Yes. You must submit original documents AND photocopies (single-sided). Original documents will be returned to you after review by the Embassy or Consulate.

Question: Can I submit documents written in a language other than English?

Answer: Yes. You must provide English translations for all foreign language documents> (click here for Japanese translation templates.)

Question: I am unable to access the DS-2029 application form from the checklist.

Answer: If you are having difficulty with the online application, please fill out the application form by hand using this PDF document.

Question: I have made a payment. How long is it good for?

Answer: Your payment is valid for one year from the date you submitted your payment. After that, you must pay again.

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Notary

Question: What should I bring?

Answer: You will need an appointment, valid government-issued I.D. (preferably a valid passport), the document that needs to be notarized, and $50 U.S. for each notary seal that is performed. Please see our Notarial Service page.

Question: Can you check my documents?

Answer: No. The staff at the Embassy/Consulates cannot review or give you advice on your documents.

Question: I need a witness for my document(s). Can the Embassy/Consulate be a witness for me?

Answer: No. You must provide your own witnesses or find someone in the waiting room willing to assist you.

Question: Can I get a notary on behalf of someone else?

Answer: No. The signer has to sign in front of the Embassy’s or Consulate’s officer in person.

If you are signing as an attorney-in-fact, please make sure you have the original notarized power of attorney, or court document. We will notarize the document stating you are the attorney-in-fact.

Question: Can I get a notary done anywhere else?

Answer: There are public Japanese notaries (公証役場 “kousho yakuba”). You may want to make sure the Japanese notary attaches an apostille by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs so the notary is recognized internationally if the documents are going to be submitted in the U.S.

American Citizen Services (ACS) encourages clients who require Japanese notarials for documents, such as notarial deeds, authentication of private documents and articles of incorporation, affidavits and the attachment of officially-attested dates, to visit the website (look for the English button on the front of the main page) of the Japan National Notaries Association (JNNA) for more information about types of notarials, fees and locations of notary offices.

Question: What options do I have if I can’t wait for the next available notarial appointment?

Answer: Please refer to the U.S. State Department’s website for information on the possibility of remote notarial services.

Question: Can I get a document authenticated?

Answer: Unfortunately, we do not authenticate documents at the U.S. Embassy/Consulates. Please contact the Office of Authentication. For authentication of Japanese Documents, please contact the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Question: I need an Apostille.

Answer: The U.S. Embassy/Consulates do not issue Apostilles. Please contact the Office of Authentication. To have Apostilles issued for Japanese Documents, please contact the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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U.S. Military

Question: I/My dependents need a SOFA stamp in my/their new passport. What should I do?

Answer: You/They do not need a SOFA stamp in the tourist passport if you/your dependent have a (Dependent) Military passport. Just make sure you are carrying both passports when traveling.

If you/they are not eligible for (Dependent) Military passports, please consult with your base.

Question: I am an active duty service member. Do I need a passport?

Question: I/My dependents have (Dependent) Military (no fee) passports. Do I/they need a tourist passport to go on vacation?

Question: I am active duty and would like to report the birth of my child. What do I need to do?

Answer: Please contact your passport agents on base. Please click here for detailed information about all necessary documentation and items.

Question: I would like to get a notary done.

Answer: Please contact your legal office on base for notarial services.

Question: Japanese immigration is asking for my U. S. Embassy-issued “Marriage Certificate” to get a spouse visa. How can I get one?

Answer: The U.S. Government/Embassy does not issue “Marriage Certificates” for marriages performed overseas or in the U.S. Your Japanese marriage document will be the only proof of your marriage. Please explain to them there is no “marriage certificate issued by your own government.”

Question: Do I need to get the translation of my Japanese Marriage Certificate notarized in order to get my spouse’s U.S. visa/green card?

Answer: No. Your Japanese Marriage Certificate needs to be translated but not notarized.

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Marriage

Question: I want to get married. What should I do?

Answer: Congratulations! Please read our detailed web page regarding marriage prior to making an appointment.

Question: What is a single affidavit and how do I get one?

Answer: Please make an appointment online for notary service. We will need to see your valid U.S. passport.

Question: Japanese immigration is asking for my U. S. Embassy-issued “Marriage Certificate” to get a spouse visa. How can I get one?

Answer: The U.S. Government/Embassy does not issue “Marriage Certificates” for marriages performed overseas. Your Japanese marriage document will be the only proof of your marriage. Please explain to them there is no “marriage certificate issued by your own government.”

Question: Do I need to get the translation of my Japanese Marriage Certificate notarized in order to get my spouse’s U.S. visa/green card?

Answer: No. Your Japanese Marriage Certificate needs to be translated but not notarized.

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Other

Question: I received my Economic Impact Payment by check, but I am having trouble cashing it at a Japanese bank. What should I do?

Answer: We are aware that this affects U.S. citizens in Japan, especially those who do not have a U.S. bank account. The U.S. Embassy cannot cash checks, and most banks in Japan stopped cashing foreign checks in 2018 per guidelines issued by the Government of Japan. We cannot change these guidelines.

The Economic Impact Payment program is administered by the IRS. The IRS maintains an International Taxpayer Service Call Center that can be reached at +1-267-941-1000 or by fax at +1-681-247-3101. For questions about the payment, including regarding the checks you have received, please contact them. They are available from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM eastern time. For further information regarding the Economic Impact Payment, please refer to the website https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments.

If you have a U.S. bank account, you should contact your own bank for instructions on depositing U.S. checks. Some have reported success depositing their checks through their bank’s mobile banking app.

If you have rights and privileges to access a U.S. military base, there are U.S. institutions on those facilities that handle U.S. checks.

Question: What if I need help with taxes or tax forms?

Answer: Please contact the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/. We also have additional information on our website with helpful links.

Question: Where should I go for assistance on voting?

Answer: Please see our webpage regarding voter assistance as well as the detailed Federal Voting Assistance Program website.

Question: How can I contact the Embassy/consulate regarding a passport, notary and/or Report of Birth question that I can’t find on your website?

Answer: For information on services for U.S. citizens, including passport, citizenship, or other emergency services, please consult theACS Navigator.

Question: How do I get my fingerprints taken in order to obtain my criminal record from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)?

Answer: U.S. embassies and consulates do not provide this service. Contact the police headquarters (e.g. Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and Prefectural Police Department) where you reside. For further details see here. Please note that the Japanese police do not sign fingerprint cards even if they agree to take your fingerprints.

Question: How do I request for my Certificate for Criminal Records in Japan?

Answer: Contact the police headquarters (e.g. Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and Prefectural Police Department) where you reside.

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